Peach kernel conveying and screening device for preparing peach slice

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of food processing machinery technology, specifically to a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation. The device includes a support assembly, a size screening assembly, a conveying assembly, and a color difference screening assembly. The support assembly provides the structural foundation. The size screening assembly uses a vibrating inclined screen to grade the peach kernels by size. The conveying assembly receives qualified peach kernels and spreads them evenly using a leveling plate. The color difference screening assembly uses an identification module to photograph and locate target peach kernels with abnormal color differences, and uses multiple adsorption modules in conjunction with a negative pressure pump to precisely adsorb the target peach kernels into a second collection box. This application achieves automated dual screening of peach kernel size and color difference, effectively avoiding blind spots caused by material stacking, and accurately removing unqualified products without damaging the peach kernels, thus improving screening efficiency and finished product quality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of food processing machinery technology, and in particular to a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation. Background Technology

[0002] In the production and processing of nut-based foods such as peach slices, the quality of the raw peach kernels directly determines the taste, appearance, and market value of the final product. To ensure product quality, the production process typically includes pre-processing and screening of the peach kernels. Existing peach kernel screening technologies mainly rely on mechanized equipment. A common approach is to use vibrating screens to grade the peach kernels by size, separating oversized or undersized kernels through screens of different apertures. Subsequently, for the size-screened peach kernels, some production lines use manual visual selection or simple photoelectric color sorting equipment to remove peach kernels with abnormal color, mold, or spoilage. These existing technological solutions constitute the main operational mode of current peach kernel primary processing, realizing the basic flow from raw materials to semi-finished products.

[0003] In existing technologies, the irregular shape of peach kernels and their tendency to stack during transport create blind spots when identifying color differences, affecting the accuracy of screening. At the same time, traditional rejection methods often fail to accurately and quickly remove target peach kernels at specific locations without damaging them, leading to frequent instances of mistakenly deleting qualified products or missing unqualified products. This makes it difficult to meet the strict requirements of uniformity and integrity of raw materials for high-quality peach slice production. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation, which solves the technical problems of inaccurate identification and difficulty in accurately and non-destructively removing peach kernels with abnormal color due to stacking during the conveying process.

[0005] This application provides a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation, including a support assembly, a size screening assembly, a conveying assembly, and a color difference screening assembly. The support assembly includes a base, a support frame, and a feeding cylinder. The support frame is fixedly connected to the base and located on one side of the base. The feeding cylinder is fixed to the support frame. The size screening assembly includes an inclined screen, a guide rod, a vibrator, and a first collection box. The guide rod is slidably disposed below the feeding cylinder. The inclined screen is fixed to the guide rod. The vibrator is used to drive the guide rod and the inclined screen to vibrate. The first collection box is disposed below the inclined screen and is used to collect the kernels that leak from the inclined screen. The peach kernels are transported by a conveying assembly located on one side of an inclined screen. This assembly receives and transports peach kernels that meet a preset size. The color difference screening assembly includes an identification module, multiple adsorption modules, a negative pressure pump, and a second collection box. The identification module takes pictures of the peach kernels on the conveying assembly and obtains the position of the target peach kernel whose color difference deviates from the preset value. The multiple adsorption modules are located on one side of the conveying assembly and are used to adsorb the target peach kernels based on the position of the peach kernels and the moving speed of the conveying assembly. The second collection box is connected to the multiple adsorption modules, and the negative pressure pump is connected to the second collection box to create a negative pressure environment in the second collection box.

[0006] The conveying assembly includes a conveyor body and a leveling plate. The leveling plate is positioned above the conveyor body and is used to spread the peach kernels evenly onto the conveyor body.

[0007] The material leveling plate includes a rotating plate, a contact plate, a locking structure, and two baffles. The rotating plate is rotatably mounted on the conveyor body, the contact plate is mounted on the rotating plate and close to the conveyor body, the locking structure is used to lock the rotating plate after it is adjusted to a preset angle, and the two baffles are located on both sides of the conveyor body to prevent peach kernels from falling from both sides of the conveyor.

[0008] The identification module includes a photo-taking unit, an image processing unit, and a position calculation unit. The photo-taking unit is located above the conveyor line body. The image processing unit is connected to the photo-taking unit and is used to process the captured images to identify the color difference of the peach kernels. The position calculation unit is used to obtain the position of the target peach kernel whose color difference deviates from the preset value.

[0009] The adsorption module includes a moving unit, multiple adsorption tubes, multiple control valves, and a control unit. The moving unit is slidably mounted above the conveyor line body. Multiple adsorption tubes are mounted on the moving unit. Multiple control valves control the opening and closing of multiple adsorption tubes respectively. The second collection box is connected to multiple adsorption tubes. The control unit is used to control the movement of the moving unit and the opening and closing of the corresponding control valves based on the position of the target peach kernel, and to suck the target peach kernel into the adsorption tube.

[0010] The adsorption tube includes a tube body and a flexible contact brush, with the flexible contact brush positioned below the tube body.

[0011] The adsorption tube also includes a stop rod and a limiting block. The stop rod is rotatably installed inside the tube, and the limiting block is used to restrict the position of the stop rod. The stop rod is used to prevent the peach kernels that have entered the adsorption tube from falling out of the adsorption tube.

[0012] The adsorption module also includes a verification unit, which is used to take another picture of the peach kernel before the adsorption tube adsorbs the target peach kernel to verify the color difference of the peach kernel.

[0013] The verification unit includes a second photographing subunit, a color detection subunit, and a control subunit. The second photographing subunit is used to photograph the peach kernel after the adsorption tube moves to a preset position. The color detection subunit is used to detect the color difference of the peach kernel to be adsorbed. The control subunit is used to control the adsorption tube to adsorb the corresponding peach kernel after the color difference detection meets the preset requirements.

[0014] The second collection box includes a box body, a scraper, a screw, and a drive motor. The scraper is slidably disposed inside the box body, the screw is threadedly connected to the scraper, and the output end of the drive motor is fixedly connected to the screw.

[0015] This application provides a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation. This solution achieves efficient quality control of peach kernels by constructing an automated system integrating size grading, uniform conveying, intelligent identification, and precise adsorption. Specifically, a vibrator drives an inclined screen to vibrate, causing the peach kernels to automatically stratify according to particle size during feeding. Small particles fall into the first collection box, while peach kernels that meet the preset size are received by the conveying components, thus completing the initial size screening. Based on this, a uniform material plate is used to spread the peach kernels on the conveying line, avoiding visual obstruction caused by material stacking, thereby providing clear individual image acquisition conditions for the subsequent identification module. The identification module acquires images through a photographic unit and analyzes them through an image processing unit. Combined with a position calculation unit, it accurately locates the coordinates of target peach kernels whose color difference deviates from the preset value, enabling the system to monitor the location information of defective products in real time. Subsequently, the control unit drives the moving unit carrying the adsorption module to respond quickly based on the target position and conveying speed. A negative pressure environment is created in the second collection box and adsorption tube by a negative pressure pump, selectively opening the corresponding control valves to draw the target peach kernels into the adsorption tube. This process achieves non-contact or minimally damaging precise removal of abnormal peach kernels. Furthermore, the flexible contact brush buffers the impact force during adsorption, and the cooperation of the stop rod and limit block prevents the adsorbed peach kernels from falling back. The secondary confirmation mechanism of the verification unit further eliminates the risk of misjudgment, effectively solving the problems of low recognition rate due to material overlap and easy damage to peach kernels caused by mechanical gripping in traditional screening. Therefore, this solution not only significantly improves the accuracy and efficiency of peach kernel screening but also ensures the integrity of the raw materials, improves the consistency and overall quality of the finished peach slices, and has extremely high industrial application value.

[0016] This application forms a complete and reliable peach kernel screening solution through close collaboration and logical closed loop among various components. It not only ensures the uniformity of size screening, but also realizes intelligent and precise color difference screening, ensuring the continuous and stable operation of the production process. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below.

[0018] Figure 1 This application provides a schematic diagram of a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the left side of a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation provided in this application; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the right side of a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation provided in this application; Figure 4 A cross-sectional structural diagram of a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation provided in this application; Figure 5 A longitudinal cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation provided in this application; Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the adsorption tube provided in this application; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the identification module provided in this application; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the verification unit provided in this application.

[0019] Figure Labels 1-Support assembly; 11-Base; 12-Support frame; 13-Feeding cylinder; 2-Size screening assembly; 21-Inclined screen; 22-Guide rod; 23-Vibrator; 24-First collection box; 3-Conveying assembly; 31-Conveyor line body; 32-Equalizing plate; 321-Rotating plate; 322-Contact plate; 323-Locking structure; 324-Baffle; 4-Color difference screening assembly; 41-Identification module; 411-Photo capture unit; 412-Image processing unit; 413-Position meter Calculation unit; 42-Adsorption module; 421-Moving unit; 422-Adsorption tube; 4221-Tube body; 4222-Flexible contact brush; 4223-Anti-reverse rod; 4224-Limit block; 423-Control valve; 425-Verification unit; 4251-Second imaging subunit; 4252-Color detection subunit; 4253-Control subunit; 43-Negative pressure pump; 44-Second collection box; 441-Box body; 442-Scraper; 443-Screw; 444-Drive motor. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, but should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0021] First embodiment: In the production of peach slices, peach kernels are the core raw material, and their size consistency and color uniformity directly affect the taste, appearance, and grading of the final product. Existing peach kernel screening processes often rely on manual visual sorting or single mechanical sieving equipment. Manual sorting is inefficient, labor-intensive, and prone to missed or misjudged kernels due to visual fatigue. Traditional single sieving equipment can only grade based on geometric dimensions, failing to effectively remove peach kernels with surface defects such as mold, scorching, or uneven coloring. This results in inconsistent raw material quality entering subsequent processing stages, affecting the overall quality stability of the finished peach slices. Furthermore, existing equipment typically operates independently in size and color sorting stages, lacking a linkage mechanism, leading to a lengthy production process and increasing the risk of secondary damage or contamination during material transfer.

[0022] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides an integrated screening solution, which aims to achieve integrated automatic screening of peach kernel size and color difference by combining structured mechanical components with intelligent recognition control.

[0023] Based on this framework of thought, please refer to Figures 1-8This application provides a peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation, including a support assembly 1, a size screening assembly 2, a conveying assembly 3, and a color difference screening assembly 4. The support assembly 1 includes a base 11, a support frame 12, and a feeding cylinder 13. The support frame 12 is fixedly connected to the base 11 and located on one side of the base 11. The feeding cylinder 13 is fixed to the support frame 12. The size screening assembly 2 includes an inclined screen 21, a guide rod 22, a vibrator 23, and a first collection box 24. The guide rod 22 is slidably disposed below the feeding cylinder 13. The inclined screen 21 is fixed to the guide rod 22. The vibrator 23 is used to drive the guide rod 22 and the inclined screen 21 to vibrate. The first collection box 24 is disposed below the inclined screen 21 and is used for... Collect peach kernels that fall through the inclined screen 21; the conveying component 3 is set on one side of the inclined screen 21 to receive and convey peach kernels that meet the preset size; the color difference screening component 4 includes an identification module 41, multiple adsorption modules 42, a negative pressure pump 43 and a second collection box 44. The identification module 41 is used to take pictures of the peach kernels on the conveying component 3 and obtain the position of the target peach kernel whose color difference deviates from the preset value. The multiple adsorption modules 42 are set on one side of the conveying component 3 to adsorb the target peach kernels based on the position of the peach kernel and the moving speed of the conveying component 3. The second collection box 44 is connected to the multiple adsorption modules 42 and the negative pressure pump 43 is connected to the second collection box 44 to create a negative pressure environment in the second collection box 44.

[0024] The core innovation of this application lies in the construction of a collaborative screening system that integrates gravity vibration screening and visually guided negative pressure adsorption. By elastically sliding the inclined screen 21 onto the guide rod 22 and coupling it with the vibrator 23, efficient and uniform initial screening is achieved. By deeply binding the dynamic coordinate calculation of the identification module 41 with the motion control and timing of multiple adsorption modules 42, precise dynamic rejection under high-speed conveying conditions is achieved.

[0025] The working process and principle of this application are as follows: Peach kernels to be screened are first manually or by a feeding device into the feeding cylinder 13, falling into the inclined screen 21 under gravity. The vibrator 23 is activated, driving the guide rod 22 to cause the inclined screen 21 to vibrate at high frequency, making the peach kernels jump and move forward on the screen surface. Kernels smaller than the screen aperture or small peach kernels pass through the mesh and fall into the first collection box 24 for collection; peach kernels of acceptable size slide down the inclined screen 21 onto the conveying assembly 3. The conveying assembly 3 carries the acceptable peach kernels forward at a uniform speed. When a peach kernel passes through the shooting area of ​​the identification module 41, the identification module 41 takes a picture of it and analyzes the color difference in real time. If the color difference of a peach kernel deviates from the preset standard, the identification module 41 immediately calculates the position coordinates of the peach kernel on the current conveyor line and the time it takes to reach the adsorption station, and sends the signal to multiple adsorption modules 42. Multiple adsorption modules 42 control the corresponding adsorption units to move to the target position or prepare in advance according to the position information and conveying speed. The air path is opened the moment the target peach kernel arrives. The suction force generated by the negative pressure environment established by the negative pressure pump 43 in the second collection box 44 is used to pick up the defective peach kernel from the conveying component 3 and transport it into the second collection box 44 for storage. The qualified peach kernel continues to flow to the next process with the conveying component 3, thereby completing the fully automated double screening process.

[0026] As a preferred embodiment, the specific implementation of this application is as follows: In the peach slice production workshop, the peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation is started. The operator pours unscreened mixed peach kernels into the feeding cylinder 13. The support frame 12 stably supports the feeding cylinder 13, and the peach kernels fall into the inclined screen 21. The vibrator 23 operates at a frequency of 50Hz, driving the guide rod 22 and the inclined screen 21 to perform horizontal reciprocating vibration, and the screen inclination angle is set to 15 degrees. Peach kernels with a particle size of less than 10mm pass through the screen and fall into the first collection box 24 below. Whole peach kernels with a particle size of more than 10mm slide down the screen surface onto the belt conveyor assembly 3, and the belt speed is set to 0.5m / s. When the peach kernels move with the belt to the recognition module 41 equipped with an industrial camera, the camera captures a high-definition image with the assistance of a stroboscopic light source. The image processing algorithm identifies a peach kernel with obvious black spots on its surface, determines it to be a color difference abnormality target, and calculates its real-time coordinates on the belt. The control system then instructs the corresponding suction nozzles in the multiple sets of adsorption modules 42 located above the belt to move to the predicted coordinate point. When the defective peach kernel reaches directly below the suction nozzle, the control valve 423 opens instantly, and the negative pressure airflow provided by the negative pressure pump 43 draws the defective peach kernel into the pipe, and finally discharges it into the second collection box 44. The remaining peach kernels with normal color pass smoothly through this area and enter the subsequent slicing processing stage.

[0027] Through the above technical solution, this application achieves the following beneficial effects: Because the vibrator 23 drives the inclined screen 21 for dynamic screening, the problem of mesh clogging that easily occurs in static screening is effectively avoided, improving the efficiency and pass rate of size screening; Because a linkage mechanism between the identification module 41 and multiple adsorption modules 42 is introduced, peach kernels that are of acceptable size but have abnormal color can be captured and removed in real time, thus solving the problem that traditional equipment cannot simultaneously consider both size and appearance quality, significantly improving the uniformity of peach kernel raw materials; Because a closed negative pressure collection system is formed by the negative pressure pump 43 and the second collection box 44, dust and material splashing are avoided during the removal of defective products, ensuring the cleanliness of the production environment and the hygiene and safety of the products.

[0028] Furthermore, the conveying assembly 3 includes a conveyor body 31 and a leveling plate 32. The leveling plate 32 is disposed above the conveyor body 31 and is used to spread the peach kernels evenly on the conveyor body 31.

[0029] After being sorted by the size screening component 2, the peach kernels fall into the conveying component 3. At this point, some peach kernels may overlap or stack due to gravity, inertia, or irregular shapes. The conveyor body 31 starts and moves the peach kernels forward. When the peach kernels reach the area below the leveling plate 32, the peach kernels on the upper layer are blocked by the leveling plate 32 and cannot pass through the gap between it and the conveyor body 31. Under the friction of the conveyor body 31, the blocked peach kernels roll or slide until they adjust their posture and pass through the gap in a single layer. After being sorted by the leveling plate 32, the peach kernels continue to move in a flat state with the conveyor body 31 to the shooting area of ​​the recognition module 41, so that the imaging unit 411 can obtain a complete and clear image of a single peach kernel, thereby ensuring that the image processing unit 412 can accurately calculate the color difference and locate the target peach kernel.

[0030] Furthermore, the material leveling plate 32 includes a rotating plate 321, a contact plate 322, a locking structure 323, and two baffles 324. The rotating plate 321 is rotatably mounted on the conveyor body 31, the contact plate 322 is mounted on the rotating plate 321 and close to the conveyor body 31, the locking structure 323 is used to lock the rotating plate 321 after it is adjusted to a preset angle, and the two baffles 324 are mounted on both sides of the conveyor body 31 to prevent the peach kernels from falling from both sides of the conveyor.

[0031] The contact plate 322 refers to a limiting component that acts directly on the surface of the peach kernel material or is located above the material. It is set on the rotating plate 321 and close to the conveying surface of the conveyor body 31. The function of the contact plate 322 is to work with the rotating plate 321 to form a variable height limiting space, forcing the piled peach kernels to be leveled into a single layer or a layer of preset thickness when passing through, so as to meet the requirements of the subsequent identification module 41 for image clarity. The contact plate 322 is fixedly connected to the rotating plate 321. For example, the contact plate 322 is fixed to the lower surface of the rotating plate 321 by bolts and is also embedded in the reserved groove of the rotating plate 321. The bottom material of the contact plate 322 is set according to the actual situation. For example, it is a smooth metal plate to reduce friction, or it is a plate covered with a flexible rubber layer to prevent damage to the peach kernel skin. This application embodiment does not make any special limitations on this.

[0032] The locking structure 323 is a mechanical component used to fix the rotating plate 321 in place after it has been adjusted to the target angle. Its name is based on its locking function, preventing spontaneous displacement of the rotating plate 321 under equipment vibration or material impact. The locking structure 323 works in conjunction with the frame of the rotating plate 321 and the conveyor body 31. When the operator or drive mechanism rotates the rotating plate 321 to a preset angle (i.e., the optimal angle for the current peach kernel flow rate or particle size), the locking structure 323 intervenes, restricting the degrees of freedom of the rotating plate 321. The locking structure 323 can be implemented in various ways, such as by manually turning a knob with a threaded rod, inserting a pin into a positioning hole, or using an electromagnet for attraction and fixation. In this embodiment, the locking structure 323 is manifested as a friction damper or handwheel locking component located at the end of the rotating shaft. Locking is achieved by increasing rotational resistance or directly mechanically jamming, ensuring that the gap between the contact plate 322 and the conveyor body 31 remains stable.

[0033] When peach kernels from different batches or at different flow rates enter the conveyor body 31, the locking structure 323 is first released based on the average particle size or expected layer thickness of the peach kernels, and the rotating plate 321 is manually or automatically driven to rotate around its axis. The rotation of the rotating plate 321 causes the contact plate 322 connected to it to change its vertical distance relative to the surface of the conveyor body 31. When a thinner layer of material is needed to improve color difference recognition accuracy, the gap between the contact plate 322 and the conveying surface is reduced; when the flow rate is large and blockage needs to be prevented, the gap is appropriately increased. After the angle is adjusted, the locking structure 323 is used to lock the rotating plate 321 in this position. Subsequently, the peach kernels move forward under the drive of the conveyor body 31, and are forcibly scraped flat when passing under the contact plate 322. Excess peach kernels are blocked from flowing back or redistributed, while the baffles 324 on both sides constrain the lateral movement of the peach kernels, ultimately forming a single or multi-layer regular material flow with uniform width, consistent thickness, and no side leakage, which then enters the subsequent photo recognition area.

[0034] Furthermore, the recognition module 41 includes a photographing unit 411, an image processing unit 412, and a position calculation unit 413. The photographing unit 411 is located above the conveyor body 31. The image processing unit 412 is connected to the photographing unit 411 and is used to process the captured image to identify the color difference of the peach kernel. The position calculation unit 413 is used to obtain the position of the target peach kernel whose color difference deviates from the preset value.

[0035] The imaging unit 411 refers to the hardware device used to collect image information of peach kernels on the conveyor line. It can be an industrial camera, CCD camera, or CMOS image sensor, etc. The imaging unit 411 is fixedly installed above the conveyor line body 31, and its field of view covers the bearing surface of the conveyor line body 31, so as to continuously or intermittently acquire real-time image data of peach kernels as they move along the conveyor line. The imaging unit 411 is signal-connected to the image processing unit 412, transmitting the acquired raw image data to the image processing unit 412. Its functional positioning in the overall technical solution is as the source of visual perception, providing a basic data source for subsequent color difference analysis.

[0036] Image processing unit 412 refers to the processing module used to receive and process image data transmitted by imaging unit 411. It can be an embedded processor, industrial control computer, or dedicated image recognition chip. Image processing unit 412 internally runs image analysis algorithms, such as color space conversion (e.g., converting RGB to HSV or Lab color space), threshold segmentation, edge detection, or machine learning-based classification models, to extract color features of peach kernels from the original image and compare the extracted features with a preset standard color difference range to identify abnormal peach kernels whose color difference deviates from the preset value. Image processing unit 412 is connected to imaging unit 411 and position calculation unit 413, playing a core analytical role in the system's linkage. It converts the analog or digital image signal acquired by imaging unit 411 into a logical signal containing the color difference judgment result and transmits it to position calculation unit 413.

[0037] The position calculation unit 413 is a calculation module used to determine the specific spatial coordinates of the target peach kernel on the conveyor line. It is integrated with the image processing unit 412 in the same processor and is also an independent control chip. Based on the color difference recognition results output by the image processing unit 412, combined with the running speed of the conveyor line body 31 and the timestamp of the shooting time by the imaging unit 411, the position calculation unit 413 calculates the position coordinates of the target peach kernel relative to the conveyor line at the current and future times through kinematics. This position coordinate information will be sent to the subsequent adsorption module 42 to guide the adsorption actuator to grasp the target peach kernel at the accurate time and position. The functional positioning of the position calculation unit 413 in the overall technical solution is to realize the spatial mapping from visual recognition to physical execution, ensuring the accuracy of the subsequent removal action.

[0038] When peach kernels are conveyed on the conveyor line body 31, the camera unit 411 located above takes pictures of the peach kernels passing through its field of view and obtains image data containing the color information of the peach kernels. The image processing unit 412 receives the image data, uses a built-in algorithm to analyze the color value of each pixel in the image, and filters out peach kernels whose color characteristics exceed the preset qualified range and marks them as target peach kernels. Subsequently, the position calculation unit 413 calculates the actual physical position of the target peach kernel on the conveyor line based on the pixel position of the target peach kernel in the image, the installation parameters of the camera, and the real-time speed of the conveyor line, and transmits the position information synchronously to the control system so that the adsorption module 42 can start the adsorption action when the target peach kernel arrives at the designated station.

[0039] Furthermore, the adsorption module 42 includes a moving unit 421, multiple adsorption tubes 422, multiple control valves 423, and a control unit. The moving unit 421 is slidably disposed above the conveyor body 31. The multiple adsorption tubes 422 are disposed on the moving unit 421. The multiple control valves 423 control the opening and closing of the multiple adsorption tubes 422 respectively. The second collection box 44 is connected to the multiple adsorption tubes 422. The control unit is used to control the movement of the moving unit 421 and the opening and closing of the corresponding control valves 423 based on the position of the target peach kernel, and to suck the target peach kernel into the adsorption tubes 422.

[0040] The moving unit 421 refers to a driving mechanism capable of displacement above the conveyor line body 31. Its function is to carry the adsorption tube 422 and drive it to the target peach kernel's horizontal or vertical position quickly. The moving unit 421 is connected to the conveyor line body 31 via a slide rail, screw drive, or belt drive to achieve smooth sliding. In this application, the moving unit 421 receives target coordinate information from the position calculation unit 413 and eliminates the spatial deviation between the adsorption tube 422 and the target peach kernel through its own displacement movement, providing a positional basis for subsequent precise adsorption. The moving speed of the moving unit 421 is set according to the operating speed and production cycle of the conveyor line body 31, such as uniform speed movement or variable speed movement to match dynamic capture requirements. This application embodiment does not impose any special limitations on this.

[0041] The adsorption tube 422 is a tubular structure with a hollow channel, used to form an airflow channel under negative pressure to absorb peach kernels. Multiple adsorption tubes 422 are arranged in an array or distributed on the moving unit 421. Their number is set according to the number of peach kernels to be removed in a single operation or the coverage width; for example, they can be arranged in a single row or multiple rows in an alternating pattern. This embodiment does not impose any special limitations on this. The diameter of the adsorption tube 422's opening is adjusted according to the average size of the peach kernels to ensure that the target peach kernels can be smoothly sucked in without easily becoming clogged. The adsorption tube 422 is connected to the second collection box 44. When the control valve 423 is opened, the negative pressure environment inside the second collection box 44 is transmitted to the opening through the adsorption tube 422, generating suction to separate the target peach kernels from the conveyor line body 31 and suck them into the tube.

[0042] Control valve 423 refers to a switching element installed on the passage of each adsorption tube 422, used to independently control the airflow to and from the corresponding adsorption tube 422. Control valves 423 are configured one-to-one with adsorption tubes 422, allowing each adsorption tube 422 to be opened and closed individually. Control valve 423 can be a solenoid valve, pneumatic valve, or other type of fluid control valve, and its response time should meet the requirements of high-speed screening. In this application, control valve 423 receives instructions from the control unit and only opens the control valve 423 corresponding to the adsorption tube 422 facing the target peach kernel, while keeping the adsorption tubes 422 in other non-target areas closed, thereby achieving selective rejection and avoiding the accidental aspiration of qualified peach kernels.

[0043] The control unit, a data processing device such as a microprocessor, PLC controller, or industrial computer, serves as the decision-making center for the entire color difference screening component 4. The control unit is electrically connected to the position calculation unit 413, the moving unit 421, and each control valve 423 in the identification module 41. Based on the received target peach kernel position information and the real-time operating speed of the conveyor line body 31, the control unit calculates the moving trajectory and timing of the moving unit 421 and sends a drive signal to control the movement of the moving unit 421. Simultaneously, when the moving unit 421 reaches a preset position or the target peach kernel enters the adsorption range, the control unit sends a signal to open the corresponding control valve 423, completing the adsorption action. The control unit also adjusts the moving speed and valve opening duration according to actual working conditions to adapt to the processing requirements of peach kernels of different specifications.

[0044] Specifically, the working process and principle of this application are as follows: When the identification module 41 identifies the target peach kernel whose color difference deviates from the preset value and calculates its position, it transmits the position information to the control unit. The control unit immediately drives the moving unit 421 to slide above the conveyor line body 31, causing one or more of the multiple adsorption tubes 422 installed on the moving unit 421 to move quickly to directly above the target peach kernel. At the same time, the control unit precisely controls the control valve 423 on the adsorption tube 422 corresponding to the position of the target peach kernel to open. At this time, since a negative pressure environment has been established in the second collection box 44, the airflow instantly forms a suction force through the adsorption tube 422, sucking the target peach kernel from the conveyor line body 31 and sending it into the second collection box 44 through the adsorption tube 422. For other adsorption tubes 422 that are not aligned with the target peach kernel, their corresponding control valves 423 remain closed and do not generate suction force, thereby ensuring that normal peach kernels continue to be conveyed forward with the conveyor line body 31 without being affected.

[0045] Furthermore, the adsorption tube 422 includes a tube body 4221 and a flexible contact brush 4222, with the flexible contact brush 4222 disposed below the tube body 4221.

[0046] When the control unit receives the position signal of the target peach kernel and drives the moving unit 421 to move the adsorption tube 422 above that position, the adsorption tube 422 moves downward. During this process, the flexible contact brush 4222, located below the tube body 4221, first touches the surface of the peach kernel, using its elastic properties to adapt to the shape and contour of the peach kernel. Subsequently, the control valve 423 opens, and the suction force generated by the negative pressure pump 43 is transmitted through the tube body 4221. Since the flexible contact brush 4222 has initially sealed the adsorption interface, the airflow mainly flows through the surface of the peach kernel and draws it into the tube body 4221. This process effectively solves the problems of air leakage and adsorption failure caused by uneven contact surfaces or peach kernel damage caused by hard contact in traditional rigid adsorption tubes, achieving non-destructive and efficient grasping of peach kernels.

[0047] Furthermore, the adsorption tube 422 also includes a stop rod 4223 and a limiting block 4224. The stop rod 4223 is rotatably disposed inside the tube body 4221, and the limiting block 4224 is used to limit the position of the stop rod 4223. The stop rod 4223 is used to prevent the peach kernels that have entered the adsorption tube 422 from falling out of the adsorption tube 422.

[0048] The anti-backflow rod 4223 is a rotatable blocking component installed inside the tube body 4221. Its function is to form a one-way lock on the peach kernels that have been sucked into the adsorption tube 422, preventing them from sliding out in the reverse direction under the influence of negative pressure fluctuations or inertia. The anti-backflow rod 4223 is connected to the tube body 4221 by a pivot or hinge structure, allowing it to be deflected open when the peach kernels enter and automatically reset and close after the peach kernels have passed. The anti-backflow rod 4223 is positioned as an anti-backflow mechanism in the overall technical solution. It works with the tube body 4221 to form a one-way channel. When the peach kernels move axially along the tube body 4221 under negative pressure, it pushes the anti-backflow rod 4223 to deflect around the rotation axis to allow passage. Once the peach kernels have completely entered or the negative pressure is removed, the anti-backflow rod 4223 returns to its initial blocking position under its own gravity or elastic restoring force, thereby blocking the backflow path of the peach kernels and ensuring that the target peach kernels are stably retained in the adsorption tube 422 until they are transported to the top of the second collection box 44.

[0049] The limiting block 4224 refers to a rigid protrusion or baffle fixed to the inner or outer wall of the tube body 4221, used to limit the static position or maximum opening angle of the stop rod 4223. The setting of the limiting block 4224 ensures that the stop rod 4223 remains in a closed state when not subjected to external force, while limiting its excessive deflection when the peach kernel passes through to avoid jamming or damage. The cooperation relationship between the limiting block 4224 and the stop rod 4223 is manifested as a positional constraint, that is, the limiting block 4224 provides a reset reference point for the stop rod 4223, ensuring that the stop rod 4223 can accurately return to the blocking position after each action, maintaining the reliability of the anti-drop function.

[0050] Furthermore, the adsorption module 42 also includes a verification unit 425, which is used to take another picture to verify the color difference of the peach kernel before the adsorption tube 422 adsorbs the target peach kernel.

[0051] The verification unit 425 refers to the secondary verification mechanism set on the adsorption module 42. Its function is to verify the target peach kernel initially determined by the identification module 41, so as to prevent false rejection due to fluctuations in ambient light, momentary occlusion of the peach kernel, or occasional errors in the image recognition algorithm.

[0052] The verification unit 425 includes a second photographing subunit 4251, a color detection subunit 4252, and a control subunit 4253. The second photographing subunit 4251 is used to take a picture of the peach kernel after the adsorption tube 422 moves to a preset position. The color detection subunit 4252 is used to detect the color difference of the peach kernel to be absorbed. The control subunit 4253 is used to control the adsorption tube 422 to adsorb the corresponding peach kernel after the color difference detection meets the preset requirements.

[0053] The second imaging subunit 4251 is an image acquisition device installed on the movement path of the adsorption module 42, and its function is to perform secondary confirmation imaging. In the system linkage, when the moving unit 421 moves the adsorption tube 422 to a preset position above the peach kernel to be processed, the second imaging subunit 4251 is triggered to acquire a real-time image of the peach kernel at the current moment. This preset position is set according to the actual situation, such as the vertical projection area directly above the adsorption tube 422, which is also the hovering position of the adsorption tube 422 before it contacts the peach kernel. This embodiment does not make any special limitation on this. The second imaging subunit 4251 is signal-connected to the position calculation unit 413 and the control subunit 4253, and transmits the acquired image data to the subsequent processing stage to ensure that a judgment is made based on the latest visual data before the final adsorption action, avoiding positioning errors caused by the rolling or displacement of the peach kernel during the transportation process.

[0054] The color detection subunit 4252 refers to an image processing algorithm module built into the control unit or an independent color analysis hardware circuit. Its function is to perform color difference quantification analysis on the image acquired by the second imaging subunit 4251. In the system linkage, the color detection subunit 4252 receives image data from the second imaging subunit 4251, extracts the color feature value of the peach kernel to be absorbed, and compares it with a preset standard color difference threshold. The method of extracting the color feature value is set according to the actual situation, such as color distance calculation based on the RGB color space, or saturation and hue analysis based on the HSV color space. This application embodiment does not make any special limitation on this. If the detection result shows that the color difference of the peach kernel to be absorbed deviates from the preset value, a signal that meets the rejection condition is generated; otherwise, a retention signal is generated, and the judgment result is sent to the control subunit 4253 as the logical basis for whether to perform the adsorption action.

[0055] The control subunit 4253 refers to a microprocessor, PLC controller, or embedded control chip. Its function is to issue the final execution command based on the judgment result of the color detection subunit 4252. In the system linkage, the control subunit 4253 is electrically connected to the color detection subunit 4252 and multiple control valves 423. When a signal that meets the rejection criteria is received, the control subunit 4253 immediately sends an opening command to the corresponding control valve 423, causing the negative pressure generated by the negative pressure pump 43 to act on the target peach kernel through the adsorption tube 422 to complete the adsorption action. If a retention signal is received, the control subunit 4253 keeps the control valve 423 closed, the adsorption tube 422 does not adsorb, and the peach kernel continues to be conveyed forward with the conveying assembly 3. This linkage mechanism ensures that only peach kernels that have been confirmed as unqualified after secondary verification are removed, effectively preventing the occurrence of false rejection.

[0056] When the moving unit 421 of the adsorption module 42, carrying the adsorption tube 422, arrives above the target peach kernel, the second imaging subunit 4251 first takes a close-up photo of the peach kernel again. Then, the color detection subunit 4252 processes the newly captured image in real time, calculating the deviation between the current peach kernel color and the standard value. Finally, the control subunit 4253 makes a logical judgment based on the deviation calculation result. Only when the deviation exceeds a preset threshold is the control valve 423 opened and the adsorption operation executed; otherwise, the peach kernel is skipped. This process forms a closed-loop control chain of shooting, detection, decision-making, and execution.

[0057] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is implemented as follows: During the peach kernel conveying and screening process, assuming that a peach kernel on the conveyor line is initially identified as a suspected defective product, the adsorption module 42 moves to above the peach kernel and pauses. At this time, the second imaging subunit 4251 installed on the side wall of the adsorption tube 422 is activated to take a high-resolution close-up image. The color detection subunit 4252 quickly analyzes the image and finds obvious black spots on the surface of the peach kernel, with a color difference value exceeding the allowable range by 15%. After receiving the signal of exceeding the standard, the control subunit 4253 immediately controls the control valve 423 connected to the adsorption tube 422 to open, and the negative pressure instantly sucks the peach kernel into the tube. If another peach kernel is found to have a color difference that fluctuates only at the critical value but does not exceed the standard after a second image analysis, the control subunit 4253 will not issue an opening command, the adsorption tube 422 will be moved away without load, and the peach kernel will be retained for the qualified product collection process.

[0058] Furthermore, the second collection box 44 includes a box body 441, a scraper 442, a screw 443, and a drive motor 444. The scraper 442 is slidably disposed inside the box body 441, the screw 443 is threadedly connected to the scraper 442, and the output end of the drive motor 444 is fixedly connected to the screw 443.

[0059] When the peach kernel residue accumulates to a certain level in the second collection box 44, the control system issues a command to start the drive motor 444. The drive motor 444 drives the screw 443 to rotate. Since the scraper plate 442 is threadedly connected to the screw 443 and is restricted by the guide rail or inner wall of the box 441 and cannot rotate with the screw 443, the rotation of the screw 443 forces the scraper plate 442 to slide linearly along the length of the box 441. During the movement, the scraper plate 442 pushes the waste deposited at the bottom of the box towards the discharge port at one end of the box 441, completing one cleaning cycle. Subsequently, the drive motor 444 reverses or stops, and the scraper plate 442 resets or remains in its original position, waiting for the next cleaning command. This process requires no manual intervention, ensuring the continuous operation capability of the screening device.

[0060] The above-disclosed embodiments are merely one or more preferred embodiments of this application and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes for implementing the above embodiments and equivalent variations made in accordance with the claims of this application are still within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation, characterized in that, The device includes a support assembly, a size screening assembly, a conveying assembly, and a color difference screening assembly. The support assembly includes a base, a support frame, and a feeding cylinder. The support frame is fixedly connected to the base and located on one side of the base. The feeding cylinder is fixed to the support frame. The size screening assembly includes an inclined screen, a guide rod, a vibrator, and a first collection box. The guide rod is slidably disposed below the feeding cylinder. The inclined screen is fixed to the guide rod. The vibrator is used to drive the guide rod and the inclined screen to vibrate. The first collection box is disposed below the inclined screen and is used to collect peach kernels that fall through the inclined screen. The conveying assembly is located on one side of the inclined screen and is used to receive and convey peach kernels that meet the preset size. The color difference screening component includes an identification module, multiple adsorption modules, a negative pressure pump, and a second collection box. The identification module is used to take pictures of the peach kernels on the conveying component and obtain the position of the target peach kernel whose color difference deviates from a preset value. The multiple adsorption modules are set on one side of the conveying component and are used to adsorb the target peach kernels based on the position of the peach kernels and the moving speed of the conveying component. The second collection box is connected to the multiple adsorption modules, and the negative pressure pump is connected to the second collection box to create a negative pressure environment in the second collection box.

2. The peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying assembly includes a conveyor body and a leveling plate. The leveling plate is disposed above the conveyor body and is used to spread peach kernels evenly on the conveyor body.

3. The peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The material leveling plate includes a rotating plate, a contact plate, a locking structure, and two baffles. The rotating plate is rotatably mounted on the conveyor body. The contact plate is mounted on the rotating plate and close to the conveyor body. The locking structure is used to lock the rotating plate after it is adjusted to a preset angle. The two baffles are located on both sides of the conveyor body to prevent peach kernels from falling from both sides of the conveyor.

4. The peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The identification module includes a photographing unit, an image processing unit, and a position calculation unit. The photographing unit is located above the conveyor line body. The image processing unit is connected to the photographing unit and is used to process the captured image to identify the color difference of the peach kernel. The position calculation unit is used to obtain the position of the target peach kernel where the color difference deviates from a preset value.

5. The peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The adsorption module includes a moving unit, multiple adsorption tubes, multiple control valves, and a control unit. The moving unit is slidably disposed above the conveyor line body. The multiple adsorption tubes are disposed on the moving unit. The multiple control valves control the opening and closing of the multiple adsorption tubes respectively. The second collection box is connected to the multiple adsorption tubes. The control unit is used to control the movement of the moving unit and the opening and closing of the corresponding control valves based on the position of the target peach kernel, and to suck the target peach kernel into the adsorption tube.

6. The peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The adsorption tube includes a tube body and a flexible contact brush, with the flexible contact brush disposed below the tube body.

7. The peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The adsorption tube also includes a stop rod and a limiting block. The stop rod is rotatably disposed in the tube body, and the limiting block is used to restrict the position of the stop rod. The stop rod is used to prevent the peach kernels that have entered the adsorption tube from falling out of the adsorption tube.

8. The peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The adsorption module also includes a verification unit, which is used to take another picture of the peach kernel before the adsorption tube adsorbs the target peach kernel to verify the color difference of the peach kernel.

9. The peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The verification unit includes a second photographing subunit, a color detection subunit, and a control subunit. The second photographing subunit is used to take a picture of the peach kernel after the adsorption tube moves to a preset position. The color detection subunit is used to detect the color difference of the peach kernel to be adsorbed. The control subunit is used to control the adsorption tube to adsorb the corresponding peach kernel after the color difference detection meets the preset requirements.

10. The peach kernel conveying and screening device for peach slice preparation as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The second collection box includes a box body, a scraper, a screw, and a drive motor. The scraper is slidably disposed in the box body, the screw is threadedly connected to the scraper, and the output end of the drive motor is fixedly connected to the screw.

Images